Liverpool have officially announced the signing of Alisson, who has also a summer target for Real Madrid, in a world record €72.5 million deal.
Liverpool have made an official statement to confirm that they have secured the services of Alisson on a long-term contract. The former AS Roma goalkeeper, who was also the subject of interest from Real Madrid, has reportedly been snapped up by the Reds in a world record deal for a goalkeeper, worth €72.5 million.
Alisson has enjoyed a career changing year with AS Roma and Brazil, which has elevated him to the status of being one of the world’s best goalkeepers. At club level, the Brazilian established himself as the first-choice at Stadio Olimpico before enjoying a solid 2017-18 campaign, wherein he displayed tremendous shot stopping abilities as well as his prowess on the ball.
The 25-year-old then followed it up with a solid showing at the 2018 FIFA World Cup with Brazil. Upon the Selecao’s quarter-final exit though, widespread speculation surrounding his future grew like wildfire. The likes of Real Madrid and Chelsea were heavily linked with him. But, Liverpool have prevailed in the race to sign Alisson.
Welcome to @LFC, @Alissonbecker. ?https://t.co/t4msWAm2sU pic.twitter.com/2xefw3zIFU
— Liverpool FC (@LFC) July 19, 2018
Liverpool’s goalkeeping problems showed no signs of letting up anytime soon. While Loris Karius had allayed the doubts for a few months, his horror showing in the Champions League final brought back the need to sign a shot stopper.
The German shot stopper’s struggles during Liverpool’s pre-season games would have only strengthened Jurgen Klopp’s resolve of reinforcing the goalkeeping department.
Real Madrid too, are in the market for a goalkeeper this summer, as they have been over the last three summers. But, it is believed that Thibaut Courtois is now the priority for Real Madrid, with the Belgian likely to be available at a cut-price fee.
Liverpool have beaten their competitors to make Alisson their fourth summer signing in a €72.5 million deal.
The deal shatters the previous world record fee for a goalkeeper – the €53 million Juventus had paid for Gianluigi Buffon in 2001. Upon completing the formalities of his move to Liverpool, the 25-year-old was visibly elated, iterating that it was a dream come true to join the Merseyside club.
“I’m really happy, it’s a dream come true to wear such a prestigious shirt for a club of this size that is used to always winning. In terms of my life and my career, it’s a huge step for me being part of this club and this family. You can be certain that I’ll give my all.”
Breaking the world record for a goalkeeper is also a signal of intent by Liverpool, although Jurgen Klopp went on to say that they have no control over the prices. The Kop army though, will be hoping that Alisson’s arrival will finally put an end to the Reds’ goalkeeping frustrations.
As far as Real Madrid are concerned, they would hope their pursuit of Courtois bears fruit after foregoing the chance to sign Alisson ahead of Liverpool.
